‘Shocked’ Parry lands England call

UNCAPPED Lancashire spinner Stephen Parry has spoken of his shock having been called into the England squad for the Tour to the Carribean and the ICC World Twenty20 in Bangladesh.

The popular Parry, who has played as substitute professional for Haslingden in the Foster’s Lancashire League and for Ribblesdale League outfit Barnoldswick, admits he was left in ‘shock’ after getting the call and is relishing the prospect of taking to the field at the highest level.

His Lancashire team-mate Jos Buttler is also included.

Parry, 28, said: “It goes without saying that I was absolutely delighted to have received the call from James Whitaker. I am still in a bit of shock!

“It’s always an ambition to play for your country and being in the squad brings that dream a step closer to reality.

“I’ve worked hard on my cricket over the years and I must thank Lancashire for all the time and effort they have spent in developing me as a player.

“I am looking forward to linking up with the squad and cannot wait to get involved.”

Lancashire coach Peter Moores said: “Stephen’s call up is great news and a reward for all his hard work and consistent performances at county level.

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“It is always special when a local player who has worked his way through the system is recognised internationally and I’m sure there are many proud people in Lancashire today who have helped him on his journey, most notably his parents.

“It is also a great example that opportunity can come at any time in sport and this one comes at a great time with England looking to build for the future.

“Personally I think he’s ready to take it and we all wish him well in the coming months.”

As well as Parry, England have included the uncapped Moeen Ali in their World Twenty20 squad, with fellow newcomer Harry Gurney in the group for the limited-overs tour of the West Indies which precedes the tournament in Bangladesh.

Having stated its intention to rebuild by ending Kevin Pietersen’s international career, the England and Wales Cricket Board began that process in earnest by summoning Worcestershire all-rounder Moeen and Parry.

They form part of a 15-man squad that will take on the world in the shortest format in Bangladesh next month.

The same group is also in place for the warm-up trip to Barbados and Antigua, with Nottinghamshire seamer Gurney on hand as an additional bowler.

Moeen, 26, is primarily a batting all-rounder and has seemed on the cusp of an England call-up for the last couple of years.

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T20 skipper Stuart Broad will captain on both tours, including the three one-day internationals in West Indies in Alastair Cook’s absence.

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